Fast bowler Navdeep Saini emphasized that excelling in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is essential for players aiming to be selected for the Indian cricket team. Once considered a promising regular in India’s pace attack, Saini last represented the national team in a T20I against Sri Lanka in July 2021. The 32-year-old cricketer was instrumental in India’s thrilling victory at the Gabba against Australia, contributing to the team’s back-to-back Test series wins in that nation.
“Whether one likes it or not, to play for India, you have to perform well in the IPL. That’s a reality,” Saini remarked, according to PTI, following his impressive figures of 2/20 in nine overs while playing for Delhi against Himachal Pradesh. He acknowledged that a shoulder injury a year earlier had affected his pace, which, in turn, led to losing an IPL contract.
Despite these challenges, Saini expressed his commitment to red-ball cricket. “I enjoy the challenge of bowling in longer formats. In my last match in Hyderabad, the pitch was slow and didn’t provide many opportunities for wickets. However, it became more lively after Tea,” he explained. He remains hopeful about making a return to the Indian team. “Why not? If I take a couple of five-wicket hauls, I will certainly be part of the discussions,” he added.
Saini conveyed that he has no regrets about his journey. “I had nothing to lose when I first arrived, and even after so many years, I still have nothing to lose. If I don’t dream about returning to the Indian team, then I have no right to hold my spot in the Delhi team,” he stated. Saini has played two Tests for India, both during the 2020/21 series in Australia. He took four wickets in the first match but struggled to bowl in the second due to a groin injury. Additionally, he has recorded six wickets in eight ODIs and 13 wickets in 11 T20Is.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/india-ipl-ranji-trophy-test-cricket-navdeep-saini-10328512/
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Publish Date: 2025-10-26 22:46:00
